Director, Scientific Operations

About Discovery Life Sciences:

Discovery Life Sciences is a global market leader in biospecimen solutions and laboratory services, offering an extensive range of products and services to support drug discovery and development. With a network of laboratories and offices across the United States and internationally, we are committed to advancing scientific research and improving health care outcomes. We are dedicated to accelerating the discovery and development of new therapies and diagnostics by providing the highest quality biospecimens, in vitro preclinical products, and cell and gene therapy starting materials, coupled with specialty lab services.

Position Summary:

The Director, Scientific Operations combines leadership of non-clinical contract research services and the overall R&D program for the Preclinical business. In services, this position will focus on delivering revenue objectives while also ensuring testing protocols are in full compliance with global regulatory requirements. In R&D, this position will develop the long-term scientific strategy of the business and then work with the scientific team to implement the program. Alignment of the R&D team to support both new products and services will be key to success in the role. Additionally, this role will provide key input across functions for Marketing, Sales, Legal, and Quality as well as working closely with the Plant Operations & Product Manager to introduce new product and assay capabilities.
 

Position Qualifications (Education, Skills, Experience):

• PhD or Master’s degree in pharmacology, toxicology, or related science preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in ADME-tox, In Vitro toxicology, or a related field.
• 5 years of direct supervisory experience in an ADME industry lab governed by FDA regulations.
• Demonstrated proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook) to support operational efficiency and customer relationship management.
• Strong team leadership abilities, fostering collaboration and guiding teams to achieve organizational goals.
• Ability to drive product development within defined scope, timelines, and budgets.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, including scientific writing proficiency.
• Exceptional business opportunity assessment and strategic decision-making skills.
• Innovative thinker with the ability to develop creative solutions and approaches.
• Experienced change agent who actively supports and leads organizational transformations.
• Decisive and willing to take appropriate risks to drive success.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage day to day activities of the studies facility including engaging with the Study Directors, Bioanalytical team and staff to provide technical support, study design and finalization of protocols; scheduling, assignment and on-time completion of contract service and research projects to meet customer service standards.
• Investigate/Apply technical knowledge to develop new products/services to meet Preclinical, ADME-tox market needs. 
• Drive product development/optimization/validation/commercial launch in close collaboration/support from Plant Operations and Product Management team. 
• Manage the optimization of site manufacturing processes/requirements from laboratory to full scale. 
• Active participant in the Preclinical business leadership team to provide insight to business strategies, new products/services, and new directions.
• Active member on designated project teams to deliver improved performance and profitability to the Preclinical business.
• Interact with Finance to meet financial goals of contract research service business.
• Provide leadership to the laboratory in total quality management. Ensure quality standards by following Company & Department policies & procedures.
• Support sales personnel in serving as a technical spokesperson during travel to clients, tradeshows, and teleconferences.
• Develop department annual budget with GM, and finance controller.       
• Advise in the preparation, execution, and monitoring of the annual operating expense budget to contain costs, including assessment of laboratory equipment needs.
• Active talent development for the scientific teams: recruitment, evaluation and hiring of scientific and technical personnel; performance appraisals; promotions; transfers; and disciplinary actions.
• Provide study director support as needed through participation in data acquisition, analysis, and draft reporting.
• Coordinate with Sales Director and Product Manager to provide quotations for services and budget for laboratory needs.

Compensation and Benefits:

Discovery Life Sciences is committed to fair and equitable compensation practices, and we strive to provide employees with total compensation packages that are market competitive. The exact base pay offered for this role will depend on various factors, including but not limited to the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.

Your annual salary is only one part of your total compensation package. Other benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package options including free medical, dental, vision, life, and disability for employees which start on your first day of employment!
• 401(k) match program which starts on your first day of employment
• Flexible work hours
• Time away from work (Generous vacation and paid time off, your BIRTHDAY, paid parental leave, paid family leave, etc.).
• Professional development opportunities and reimbursement for relevant certifications.
• Collaborative and inclusive work environment that values diversity.
• Team-building activities and social events.
• Employee Referral Program and Colleague Recognition Program

Location and work hours:

• Onsite with visible presence at sites in Malden, MA and Woburn, MA
• Standard business hours Monday - Friday
• Up to 20% domestic and 10% international travel

We are actively seeking motivated, dedicated individuals like you to join our thriving organization. As a leader in our industry, we offer unparalleled opportunities for professional growth and success.

Apply Now to join our team!
Visit dls.com/careers for more details.